Oluwo Sparks Controversy: Calls For Sharia Law In Southwest Nigeria

However, the event has been postponed indefinitely due to widespread public criticism.

The announcement sparked reactions from many Nigerians, with critics arguing that the predominantly Yoruba Southwest differs culturally and religiously from the Muslim-majority northern region.

Addressing the controversy, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwo, shared his perspective in an interview with Punch, stating that Sharia law already exists in Yoruba land.

“We have Sharia banks in the Southwest that operate under Sharia law. Sharia law has been part of Iwo for over a century, and there is even a Sharia college here. It’s the right of Muslims to choose between customary law or the high court,” Akanbi said.

He explained that many Muslims feel excluded when it comes to issues like inheritance and divorce, as Western legal systems often do not align with Islamic practices. “Sharia law is enshrined in the Nigerian constitution and is practiced in the North, where there are Nigerians. Wherever Muslims exist, Sharia follows,” he added.

The monarch emphasized that Sharia law applies exclusively to Muslims and does not affect adherents of other religions.

“If anyone is interested, they can convert to Islam, just as Muslims can convert to Christianity. Everyone is free. Sharia law shouldn’t be a concern for other religions. No government can deny Muslims their fundamental rights,” he stated.